One of the most relevant technological areas in the global automotive industry is the introduction of "green" technologies. Even effective security systems and cutting-edge electronic assistants fade in the face of the benefits that electric and hybrid concepts offer. And it's not just about minimizing the level of environmental pollution. Failure, or at least a reduction in the consumption of traditional fuels, is also beneficial for motorists themselves, who can expect significant savings. True, the word “saving” is still reluctant to combine with the prices of energy-saving models. Most of the offers of this class are available to Russian consumers for 2-3 million rubles. In this context, the choice of a car such as the Toyota Prius Hybrid, which photo is presented below, is very attractive.
The model is offered with an initial price tag of 1.2 million rubles. Of course, such a cost cannot be called affordable for the mass motorist, but the reduction in fuel consumption during long-term operation will justify the investment. Moreover, the buyer gets not just a model with an unusual powerplant, but a high-quality Japanese car with a hint of premium.
Model Overview
The fashion for hybrid models and electric cars from manufacturers arose in the early 2000s. Of course, some developments in this area existed before, but their actual implementation in concepts occurred only in the last 15 years. In turn, the Japanese manufacturer became one of the pioneers in the segment, having released a hybrid model back in 1997. However, the car appeared on the world market only three years later. At the same time, the same device was preserved - the 2000 Toyota Prius Hybrid under the hood contains four components: a traditional ICE, an electric motor, a high-voltage battery and a motor generator. As you can see, the model combines elements from different configurations of the power plant, including the classic internal combustion engine, and the battery.
In terms of appearance, the car can be attributed to the golf class. Although large manufacturers are keen to supply extremely expensive luxury versions with hybrid systems, the Japanese have chosen a class close to the general consumer. Actually, this is the reason for the relatively affordable price for Toyota Prius Hybrid cars, the reviews of the owners of which are very favorable in relation to the version for 1.2 million rubles, but they also note the wealth of optional equipment in more expensive versions for 2 million rubles. .
The principle of operation of the basic version
Engineers offer two approaches to implementing a hybrid design. In the first embodiment, the movement and control of the machine are provided by an electric motor, and the internal combustion engine only supplies the battery. The second option provides for the possibility of equivalent use of both generators. The first two generations of the Japanese model showed the possibility and effectiveness of combining both concepts. To understand how the Toyota Prius Hybrid works in a classic version, it is worth considering the Synergy Drive power plant. The complex includes a 78 liter petrol engine. from. and a 68-liter battery-powered electric motor. from. Together, this ensures maximum return. You can control this potential with four modes. At the time of start-up, the ICE installation is turned off, and the electric motor takes over the function of the main drive of the machine. As power increases, the situation changes: the battery activity decreases, and a gasoline unit comes into play.
Third generation working principle
Despite the increase in power, the third generation of the model was distinguished by a high level of fuel economy. The version received a 1.8-liter "four", a scheme which is based on the Atkinson cycle. As the original device suggests, Toyota Prius Hybrid has also received a battery that is used as needed. The features of the third generation also include the use of an electric pump for cooling and an improved exhaust recirculation system. As for driving modes, in this case three methods are supposed. The first mode (EV) is designed for movement in the low speed range with the battery connected. This is followed by an enhanced mode that allows you to increase the sensitivity of the accelerator for a sporty ride. The most economical is Eco Mode, which achieves the most rational ratio of energy expended and power demands of the car during movement.
Technical parameters of the model
With all the features of the internal filling, the platform and the main structure of the car are made according to the traditional scheme. At the same time, the exterior looks rather unusual, which, in turn, gives another highlight to the Toyota Prius Hybrid. Technical characteristics of the model are as follows:
- The body of the hybrid is a 5-door hatchback.
- Length - 445 cm.
- Width - 172.5 cm.
- Height - 149 cm.
- The luggage compartment is at least 408 liters.
- Wheelbase - 270 cm.
- Rear track - 148 cm.
- Front track - 150.5 cm.
- Ground clearance - 14.5 cm.
- The suspension is spring independent in the front and semi-independent in the rear.
- The gearbox is direct planetary.
- The brakes are disc.
Battery specifications
The manufacturer uses batteries from NiMH and Panasonic, which are given an 8 year warranty. Actually, thanks to these elements, the cost-effectiveness of the Toyota Prius Hybrid is also provided. The specifications of the batteries used are as follows:
- Capacity - from 6 to 21 A * h.
- The time to complete a charge is 90 minutes.
- Weight - from 45 to 80 kg, depending on version.
- The number of modules in the battery is from 28 to 40.
- The number of segments in the module is 6.
- The voltage in the segment is 1.2 V.
- The total voltage is from 206 to 288 V.
- The battery backup energy is a maximum of 4.4 kWh.
Technological features of operation
In the view of most motorists, the main difference between hybrid models is their efficiency. Nevertheless, there are other nuances of operation, which has a Toyota Prius Hybrid. The principle of operation, in particular, determines a rather high level of control automation, which should be prepared for. For example, the on-board computer independently adjusts the engine's operating parameters, thus ensuring optimal battery performance. So, at the moment the car stops, the system activates regenerative braking, due to which the battery is recharged automatically.
Other useful solutions are offered, including a distance control sensor, automatic seat belt tension, seat adjustment and optimal adjustment of pedal sensitivity in a Toyota Prius Hybrid. Responses of owners highly appreciate the work of intelligent assistants, which make it easy to park, use a rear view camera.
Fuel consumption
Even against the background of other representatives of the hybrid segment, the Japanese model shows good savings. In the city, the car in the basic version consumes about 8 liters, and outside the city even less - 5.5 liters. In addition, in terms of emissions of harmful substances used by the Japanese engines significantly exceed the Euro-4 standards. At the same time, the third generation has even lower fuel consumption. "Toyota Prius Hybrid" in this design, when driving around the city, demonstrates consumption at the level of 4.9 liters, and on the highway - 4.6 liters. This achievement was made possible not only thanks to the power plant. To cover gasoline consumption from increased engine power, engineers used heavy-duty aluminum alloys in the structure. This allowed to reduce the mass of the hybrid, which is 1.5 tons.
Dynamic indicators
The widespread adoption of green technologies in the automotive industry is hindered by two factors holding back demand. Among them, as already noted, the price, as well as modest speed performance. However, the Japanese manufacturer was able to get rid of these shortcomings, as evidenced by the dynamic characteristic: Toyota Prius Hybrid has a decent maximum speed of 170 km / h and good acceleration - up to 100 km / h, the Chinese accelerates in 11 seconds.
In part, such a high hybrid performance is due to the lightweight construction, but the influence of technological features of the model should not be excluded. For example, a high-torque electric motor provides a quick response, and the lack of a traditional gearbox allows you to optimize the interaction between the driver and the power plant. Also, do not forget about the electronic systems that complement the SUV for Toyota Prius Hybrid cars. Owner reviews indicate the practical benefits of assistants in the movement process. They not only contribute to increased safety, but also facilitate the management of the hybrid.
Hybrid Development Plans
In the development of new modifications, the company focuses on several areas. The most important at the moment is to improve the aerodynamic qualities of the model. Work on this part is done by designers who design the exterior. In the first generations, the creators managed to achieve a significant result in the form of a reduction in the drag coefficient, which today is optimal for the Toyota Prius-Hybrid model. The principle of operation based on alternative power sources will also be developed, including through solar panels. Engineers are actively engaged in the design of ways to install them on the roof. It is assumed that due to this element the car will be able to provide the climate control system.
Positive feedback from owners
Most of the positive reviews about the model are due to the advantages that the power plant provided. Compared to traditional gasoline cars, this car is much more economical to operate. And the point is not only to reduce fuel costs for such a five-door as the Toyota Prius Hybrid. Owner reviews indicate that the model does not often require an oil change, and also eliminates the need to repair the starter and alternator, which are simply missing under the hood. In addition, the advantages of the car in terms of equipping with the latest optional devices are noted.
It is worth noting the advantages of the car in terms of operation in Russia. What is especially pleasant for the domestic car owner: even severe frosts do not affect the performance of the Toyota Prius Hybrid crossover. Owner reviews in winter confirm that the car starts up without any problems and requires only heating the passenger compartment for a comfortable ride.
Negative reviews
Of course, the high cost of many repels such a purchase. Although compared to other hybrids, this option can be called the most affordable, yet this car is more expensive than gasoline counterparts. There is criticism regarding the problems of recycling hybrid batteries, but these problems are more concerned with environmental organizations, rather than car owners.
Conclusion
On the Russian market there are no models in the segment of "green" cars that could make full competition with the Japanese development. No wonder the reviews on the Toyota Prius Hybrid are mostly positive. The car is economical in operation and maintenance, but at the same time it provides almost all the functionalities that familiar gasoline models have. Of course, when buying, you will have to prepare a large amount of money, but a hybrid with long-term operation will certainly pay for itself. New technologies are expensive, but the benefits of moving to better vehicles are hard to overestimate.